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Extreme loss of appetite since starting chemo for pancreatic cancer

Posted by kjc12 @kjc12, May 24, 2023

My husband had Whipple surgery Feb 2, 2023 for a Stage 1B pancreatic tumor. He is receiving the Folfirinox chemo regimen. The 1st round was horrible. They decreased certain amounts for the 2nd and 3rd treatments. Since starting Chemo he has lost 17lbs not including the 10lbs he lost after the Whipple surgery. The Chemo has taken away any desire to eat. We have been given various medications to stimulate appetite and none are really working. He is scheduled for his 4th round June 1st. Has anyone dealt with this same struggle? He can’t keep losing and would appreciate any feedback on this.

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davisworld1 | @davisworld1 | May 26, 2023

I underwent chemo before my unsuccessful whipple and lost my appetite and went from 145 to 110. Finishing my 25th radiation dose at Sloan Kettering with Dr. Crane. Loss of appetite again. I have found Kate Farms protein shakes a savior. Pricey but taste ok. I also use medical grade protein powder from my integrative doctor. And have gained a little weight back. Doc said in about two weeks the affects of radiation should pass and I will gain. I also take Creon but never sure how much. Hang in there.

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kjc12 | @kjc12 | May 26, 2023
In reply to @davisworld1 "I underwent chemo before my unsuccessful whipple and lost my appetite and went from 145 to..." + (show)
@davisworld1

I underwent chemo before my unsuccessful whipple and lost my appetite and went from 145 to 110. Finishing my 25th radiation dose at Sloan Kettering with Dr. Crane. Loss of appetite again. I have found Kate Farms protein shakes a savior. Pricey but taste ok. I also use medical grade protein powder from my integrative doctor. And have gained a little weight back. Doc said in about two weeks the affects of radiation should pass and I will gain. I also take Creon but never sure how much. Hang in there.

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Thank you for sharing your story. Will definitely look into the protein powder. We too are at Sloan. The enzyme dosage is definitely hard to navigate. Wishing you better days ahead as well.

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gamaryanne | @gamaryanne | May 26, 2023

I tried all of these things and more during 14 rounds of chemo. One thing not mentioned is putting very very clean protein powder in applesauce or another similar vehicle. Appetites change from time to time so don’t be put off by it-some favorites will return. I couldn’t stand any meats that were dry so sauces helped. Stay strong and hold out for the cavalry! Could be your surgeon or even so many promising things in the pipeline.

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kjc12 | @kjc12 | May 26, 2023
In reply to @gamaryanne "I tried all of these things and more during 14 rounds of chemo. One thing not..." + (show)
@gamaryanne

I tried all of these things and more during 14 rounds of chemo. One thing not mentioned is putting very very clean protein powder in applesauce or another similar vehicle. Appetites change from time to time so don’t be put off by it-some favorites will return. I couldn’t stand any meats that were dry so sauces helped. Stay strong and hold out for the cavalry! Could be your surgeon or even so many promising things in the pipeline.

Jump to this post

Thanks for your encouraging words, much appreciated.

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